
The Gift of Sangoma
By Cameron Makharilele

16 Aug, 2024

Mila, a young girl from the village, was on her usual route through the mystical forest, but today was different. She felt a strange pull, a magnetic force leading her deeper into the woods.

Suddenly, from the radiant mist, emerged Sangoma, an ethereal entity, offering Mila a gift - the power of insight. 'This gift,' Sangoma said, 'is often given to those of inappropriate ages, like the 2000s.'

Returning to her village, Mila felt different. She could now see things others couldn't. Her once familiar world was now filled with mystical creatures, hidden portals, and enchanting spells.

The villagers were both fascinated and terrified by Mila's newfound abilities. They couldn't comprehend her powers, and this fear of the unknown led to mistrust.

The village elders, intrigued by Mila's gift, convened a meeting. They wanted to understand the powers of Sangoma and how it had transformed Mila's life.

Mila explained her experiences, her visions, and her ability to communicate with the mystical creatures. The elders listened in silence, their faces reflecting a mix of awe and fear.

Despite the fear and apprehension, Mila was determined to use her powers for good. She vowed to protect her village and its people from any harm or danger.

Mila's mother, although concerned for her daughter's safety, supported her decision. She knew her daughter was special and had faith in her abilities.

Mila ventured into the forest every night, communing with the mystical creatures, learning their languages, and understanding their ways.

One such night, Sangoma reappeared. 'Remember, Mila, with great power comes great responsibility,' it warned, before disappearing into the mist.

One day, the village was abuzz with rumors of a monstrous creature lurking in the forest. The villagers were terrified, and they turned to Mila for help.

Mila, remembering Sangoma's words, assured the villagers. She promised to use her powers to protect them and ventured into the forest to confront the creature.

In the heart of the forest, Mila encountered the monstrous creature. Its red eyes glowed ominously in the darkness, and it towered over her menacingly.

Mila stood her ground, fearlessly facing the monster. She called upon her powers, speaking in the ancient language of the forest, trying to soothe the agitated beast.

To everyone's surprise, the monstrous creature calmed down. It seemed to understand Mila's words. A sense of peace replaced the fear, and the forest sighed in relief.

The creature, no longer a threat, retreated into the depths of the forest. Mila, victorious yet humble, returned to her village, greeted with cheers and applause.

The villagers celebrated Mila's bravery and thanked her for her courage. They no longer feared her powers but respected them. The gift of Sangoma had saved their village.

The village elders, acknowledging Mila's wisdom and maturity, honored her with the title of 'Guardian of the Village'. A title, they agreed, befitting her bravery and dedication.

Mila's mother, filled with pride, hugged her daughter tightly. She knew her girl had grown up, transformed by the gift of Sangoma into the guardian of their village.

Mila, now respected and revered, continued to live her life with courage and responsibility. Her gift was no longer seen as inappropriate but as a blessing.

Mila would often visit the forest, her second home, continuing to learn and grow. The trees whispered tales of her bravery, spreading her legend far and wide.

Sangoma, watching over Mila, was pleased. The gift had found its rightful owner, a girl of an 'inappropriate' age who had proven that age was just a number.